Ontario Master Naturalist Workshop - Carden Alvar Flora

Event Date: 
Sunday, May 31, 2026 - 10:00am to 1:00pm EDT
Event Location: 
Carden Alvar, Simcoe County (Line 7 just East of 169)
Event Fee: 
60
Event Contact E-mail: 

carden alvar
An Alvar is an important yet widely unknown ecosystem. It first appears as unproductive land or a rock barren but holds a unique, rare and stressed ecosystem that floods in spring and experiences drought by mid-summer. We have this rare phenomenon nearby in Carden with a diverse range of flora that can be studied.
Join Ontario Master Naturalist Program coordinator Bob Bowles for a morning hike on the Carden Alvar! Alvars are globally rare ecosystems and are recognized worldwide for being home to a large number of important plant and bird species. During the hike, Bob will point out some of these important species, including possibly Prairie Smoke and Field Chickweed. You’ll come away from this workshop with an increased understanding of the environmental significance of alvars, and the ability to ID some of the plant species commonly found in these habitats. You’ll also receive a workshop booklet to guide your engagement!

 

Master Naturalist Workshops

Details


The Ontario Master Naturalist Program workshop series is separate from the Master Naturalist certificate program. Each workshop is offered separately and certificates are not awarded for completion.

Mammal Tracking Workshop


 

Mammal Tracking

Embrace the freshly fallen snow and get outside in nature to learn something new this winter! Join Ontario Master Naturalist Program facilitator Bob Bowles at the Robert L. Bowles Nature Centre to learn key techniques for tracking mammals and identifying species, such as observing the different gaits mammals use during winter, and measuring stride, straddle, and other components.

Dress warmly in layers for an interactive hike on the trails, and don't forget to wear sturdy snow boots that work well with the snowshoe harnesses. Pack a lunch and spend time by the fire with the group discussing the day's discoveries.

Participants will receive a field brochure and hot drinks will be provided. Snowshoes will also be available to rent for $10 directly at the Robert L. Bowles Natures Centre for those who do not have their own.

Date: Saturday, January 31, 2026

Time: 10:00am - 2:00pm

Location: Robert L. Bowles Nature Centre, Ramara, ON

Costs: $60 +HST

REGISTER HERE

Contact Us


For more information or any questions about the Ontario Master Naturalist Program, please contact cell@lakeheadu.ca

Winter Dendrology - Discovering Deciduous Trees in Wintertime


Winter Dendrology poster

Are you interested in learning about how trees survive the winter and how to identify various types of trees during the winter months?

This winter season, join Ontario Master Naturalist Program facilitator Bob Bowles to learn about the many different species of trees that call Ontario home. Participants will learn how to identify different trees by their winter bud shape, size, colour, arrangement, leaf scars, and bark details in an informative and interactive presentation. During this workshop participants will receive a Winter Dendrology booklet written by Bob himself!

Date: Saturday, March 14, 2026

Time: 1:00 - 4:00pm

Location: Copeland Forest (Parking at the Nordic Centre)

Fees: $60 +HST

REGISTER HERE